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FDA Issues Warning on Concussion Supplements

If it were only that easy: take a pill and avoid a concussion. Problem is, no scientific evidence supports the claim that any dietary supplement is effective in the treatment or prevention of concussion. Advertising Policy Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not … Read More

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FDA Issues Warning on Concussion Supplements

Buyer beware: No science supports their claims

If it were only that easy: take a pill and avoid a concussion. Problem is, no scientific evidence supports the claim that any dietary supplement is effective in the treatment or prevention of concussion.

No drug can speed recovery from concussion

The FDA says that one of the most common – and potentially dangerous – claims made by sellers of these dietary supplements is that they help a concussion to heal faster. That claim could result in an athlete with a concussion resuming activities prematurely.

“Rest is necessary to give time for the brain and the brain processes to heal and return to their normal state or near-normal state,” Dr. Russman says. Therapies also may be needed to manage symptoms such as headaches or dizziness.

Early return can spell serious health risk

If concussion patients resume strenuous activities – such as football, soccer or hockey – too soon, they also risk a greater chance of having another concussion, the FDA says. Once you have a concussion, you are at three to five times greater risk for later concussions.

A second concussion that occurs before the brain has recovered from a first one can slow permanent recovery and increase the chances for long-lasting problems, Dr. Russman says. These problems include difficulties with concentration and memory, headaches and sometimes physical skills such as keeping one’s balance.

Moreover, repeat concussions can have a cumulative effect on the brain, with devastating consequences that can include brain swelling, permanent brain damage, long-term disability and death.